Inside The Class Room

INSIDE THE CLASSROOM

The Harris School works with children in PreK3 through 6th grade. Students are grouped together based on cognitive ability and emotional development. We attempt to keep students with their social age group and meet their academic needs on an individual basis.

Our classrooms are physically designed with a “home-like” feel to give students a sense of warmth and safety. Colors, textures, sounds, lighting and furniture placement help us address many different needs. We also offer alternatives to traditional desk seating as needed. We believe when students’ sensory needs are honored, behavior and performance improve.

Teachers at The Harris School use an inclusive approach to learning. It provides flexibility for learning styles while simultaneously being academically challenging. Our teachers have patience and understanding when a student’s emotions interfere with their learning. The classroom schedule allows for adequate time in each subject area; however, if a student cannot complete an assignment due to behaviors, we allow flexibility within those schedules. The goal is to help students make appropriate choices regarding their schoolwork and to understand the concept of “moving on” with the day instead of getting “stuck.” To achieve this goal, we maintain a low staff-to-student ratio of 1:5.

The mission of The Harris School is to provide an exceptional learning environment for students and their families by using an integrated academic and therapeutic program designed to enhance self-awareness, problem solving skills and social-emotional well-being.